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Wetland & Bush Protection Subdivisions

20 February 2025

AUTHOR:Mark Hatten

A significant benefit of rural subdivision is that it can lead to the protection of wetlands and indigenous vegetation. This is because the planning rules allow subdivision if such areas are protected. This win-win scenario means rural property owners can benefit from the value of subdividing new titles, while helping to secure the important ecological values of protecting wetlands and native bush. The Auckland Council rules for subdivisions involving ecological protection have recently been clarified by the Environment Court. There are now more opportunities to subdivide, by adding together separate areas of wetland or bush to make up the minimum council requirements. Previously council required the minimum area to be contained in one continuous area. If you have a total area of at least two hectares of bush on your property, then it is possible to undertake a transferrable title subdivision. Four hectares of bush or 5,000m2 of wetland may allow the new titles to be on your property.

The Birch team of planners and surveyors are ready to help you smoothly navigate the council rules and take advantage of the new opportunities.